Looking out of the big bay window that is my view from my kitchen and dining area all around is lush and green. The rains came late this year but when they at last arrived the place was once again transformed. Our winters in WA are mild and wettish and we have many lovely sunny winter days so the grass grows most of the time except for the coldest times around mid year when the days are at their shortest. We sold the two cows that were due to calve in March/April and they both calved out bull calves for their new owner. We had two other cows due, we thought, around the end of June but we are still waiting ! Daily they progress towards calving and we wait. They are probably bull calves too as they are often born later. Our two cows that are holidaying up Lancelin way are due to calve from mid July and we are looking forward to seeing what Ebony produces as she is a black polled girl that carries red and dun genes mated to a polled Dun sire. We know Fiesta will have a polled calf as she is double polled and probably black as there is no known colour in her line. The rest of the mated girls are due in September/October so Spring this year will be a busy time. We have had some lovely drives in the country as our search for the perfect investment/add on block continues. We have seen some really magnificent pieces of land but some have been very steep. It seems the steeper they have been the more lush the pasture has been. Several of the blocks I know our cattle would have enjoyed, but resale? I don't think they would have been ideal as an investment so we are still looking. Sadly we have also seen some terrific pieces of land that have been badly let go and infested with tenacious weeds and we really don't need to work that hard even though they have been drastically reduced in price. Lately we have been thinking of getting some more sheep as our two fine wool Merinos are getting very long in the tooth. After looking at all the breeds available in WA we think we may go for Wiltshires although I am still quite partial to Suffolks but their wool is worth very little and barely covers the cost of shearing so maybe the self shearing Wilties may be the best option. Well best go and get some more wood in for the fire we have plenty of it cut so no need to be cold at night! Till next time Gillian.
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AuthorGillian is a Dexter breeder of more than 27years living on 36 acres. Previously been employed in the medical laboratory and veterinary fields. Was self employed in own small business with her husband. Now retired and still very busy with the Dexters. Interested in Dexters, health and nutrition with emphasis on prevention and an interest in alternative medicine for animals and people. Archives
December 2022
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